NUTRITION of the breeding stallion is a key consideration for all stallion owners and handlers, particularly at this time of year. Breeding stallions are often difficult to maintain at optimal body condition; some become too light at the height of the breeding season, while others maintain body condition very easily and can be liable to get too heavy when fed energy-rich concentrates. By providing a carefully balanced diet and monitoring weight regularly, a stallion’s body condition score can be kept at an optimal level all year long.

For the stallion, the year can be divided into two basic phases, breeding season and the off-season.